So the worst has happened and you have been scammed. It is a horrible sinking feeling when you have lost money and time. All that hope that you put into this one thing is gone and it is very tempting to go straight out there and type into Google,

"I need money now" and start the whole process again.

When you have just realised you have been scammed, you are at a very low point and therefore are a much easier target for scammers. It is a horrible cycle.

The first thing you must do is to stay calm. It could be that you have lost a lot of money and even kept it a secret from your family, so you will feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Don't panic, it will all work out.

Write down all the details of what has happened, so that you don't forget anything and contact the State Office of Fair Trading and Consumer Affairs. You can also email TV programs such as A Current Affair and Today Tonight. Please note that I am based in Australia, but I am sure that there are similar programs around the world, which expose scams. https://www.refundee.com/ 

If you are feeling depressed, make an appointment with your Doctor, who may be able to arrange counselling. In Australia please call 13 11 14 to speak to a Lifeline Councillor if you are feeling depressed or suicidal. If you are in another country Google counselling services in your area. Don't be ashamed to talk to someone.

For financial guidance in Australia you can call 13 23 00. This is a Centrelink number and if you leave a message a Financial Information Services Officer will call you back. They offer free independent advice to help people understand their financial situation.

Avoid getting into more debt. Another credit card will not solve your problems (trust me I am Miss Gullible and I have already been there).

Talk to your family and let them know the situation. You may need their support.